BIG NEWS!

Mississippi Mills Public Library Announces 2026 Leadership Collaboration: CEO/Chief Librarian Christine Row to Join Brockville Public Library in Secondment; Incoming CEO/Chief Librarian Berta Madrigal Abaroa to Lead MMPL

The Mississippi Mills Public Library (MMPL) is pleased to announce its leadership succession plan for 2026. CEO/Chief Librarian Christine Row, who has served in this role for seven years, will transition into a mentorship position to support and train incoming CEO/Chief Librarian Berta Madrigal Abaroa. This plan ensures continuity for the community while accommodating Row’s part-time secondment with the Brockville Public Library (BPL). Read more.

Get Ready to Sparkle! December’s Festive Makerspace Workshops Are Here!!
The most wonderful time of the year is almost here, and we’re SO excited to bring you some fantastic FREE festive workshops in the Makerspace! Whether you’re a crafting newbie or a seasoned pro, absolutely no experience is necessary – just bring your holiday spirit! All materials are provided.
Spots are limited, so grab yours fast! To view workshop items, specific times, and to register: https://form.jotform.com/253005771418252
Or book a December Makerspace Club Session to work on your own project using the machine(s) for which you have already completed Beginner Training: https://www.jotform.com/build/253305369559264

Both branches of the library will be closed on Monday, 15 December for staff training and development. Sorry for any inconvenience. Regular hours resume Tuesday.

Thank You to the Friends of MMPL!
In 2025, the Friends of MMPL generously donated $21,500 to support the library and its services. Their contribution helps keep the library fine-free, removing barriers to access, promoting lifelong learning, and ensuring equal service for everyone. Notably, they funded and supported:

  • A new self-checkout station
  • 100 new chairs for programs and events
  • A new booking management system, for equipment, appointments and spaces!

Every year, the Friends continue to expand their fundraising efforts and increase their support for the library. Their generosity—and the generosity of the community members who support their efforts—makes a real and lasting difference. Together, we are helping make our community stronger, more connected, and inspired to keep learning. Thank you!!!

And guess what? They’re not done yet!

This weekend (December 5, 6, & 7) the Friends of MMPL are having a Christmas book sale at the Rexall Mall at 430 Ottawa St. The sale will feature books of every genre in good to near-new condition. Most are sold individually, but some are in ready-to-go festive sets! Experience a holiday atmosphere with the Friends, purchase some wonderful Christmas gifts, and support our library!

MMPL is getting ready for the parades happening this weekend in Pakenham & Almonte! Thank you to everyone that took the time to make a “book” for our float! We were blown away by your talent and creativity. Please come see what we have planned for them and try to spot yours! The Pakenham Santa Clause Parade is 6 December @1:00pm & the Almonte Christmas Parade is 7 December @5:00pm.

It takes a village to build a village – Pakenham art project! Looking for something to do with the kids on the weekend or over the Holiday Break? Itching to do something creative yourself?

Templates and supplies are available at the Pakenham branch to make a house for our next winter display. Be as colourful and creative as you like! Leave your creation(s) with the staff throughout December, and keep an eye out for the finished collaborative craft in the new year!

Almonte branch’s volunteer Tech Tutor is back! Mike takes DROP-INS ON SUNDAYS, 10am–2pm. He can answer your tech support questions. Bring your device. This is a drop-in, with no appointment necessary, so some patience might be useful. A session may be limited to 30-45 minutes if it’s a busy Sunday.
As always, appointments are also available during the week by appointment with Rob or Megan. These can be booked in-person, by phone/email, or online here: https://mmpubliclibrary.libcal.com/appointments/techtutor

Family Folk Music Concert – Free!  Saturday, December 20 from 1–2pm at the Almonte Branch
Everyone is invited to a joyful hour of live music with the Ottawa Hungarian Folk Music School! Founded in 2022 by teachers Jozsef Horváth and Sylvie Paquette, the school is a fully volunteer-led initiative dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Hungarian folk musicians, teaching traditional instruments like violin, kontra (viola), and double bass. Come celebrate these talented young musicians and enjoy a lively, family-friendly concert!

Kids Drawing and Cartooning with Sam Hamilton for Ages 6 – 11.  Saturdays from 1:30-2:30pm at the Almonte branch, beginning January 17, 2026.
In this fun 8-week program, kids will practice and develop our drawing and cartooning skills with an emphasis on effective storytelling. Each week, they will explore how different illustrators have tackled a selection of scenarios and then put their pencils to work to find solutions of their own. All supplies and materials are included; just bring your creativity! Free to participate. Register here: https://form.jotform.com/253355503785260

Gatineau Park Winter Passes are now available at both branches. Access the cross-country ski, snowshoe and snow biking trails in Gatineau Park this winter! No holds. One week loan period. One pass per library card.  All trails are free for children age 12 and younger.

Family Winter Solstice Craft Drop-in. Come gather on the shortest day to prepare for the longest night!  Families are invited to come and make Lanterns and Orange Pomanders while sipping kid friendly Wassail in the warmth of the library. Almonte Branch, December 21 from 10am – 1pm

Almonte Babytime and Storytime are cancelled this Friday, December 5.  We look forward to seeing you December 12!